robert74

I currently use an old sblive value, but I'm thinking the Audigy 2 ZS would be a better option.

If I buy an Audigy 2 ZS, what are the main benefits?

I hope for:
- 24 bit recording
- ability to use more effects in the DSP
- lower noise floor

anything else good about it?
Is it as reliable?

Your advice is appreciated,

Robert.

Maddogg6

Yup. With Caveates...kX ASIO is now 24/48 and works well.
Wave HQ is capable of 24/96 - but only with analog inputs and maybe with digital inputs already at 24/96 - which I dont have - I suspect its a sample rate conversion thing, which almost makes it moot - but it has caused unexpected issues for me.

Yup - I think about 2x the resources:

10K2 - A2ZS
Instr: 1024
GPR's: 512
iTram: 192
xTram: 64
iTramSize: 8192
xTramSize: 2048 (user setting, 2048 is max possible)

10K1 - Live
Instr: 512
GPR's: 256
iTram: 128
xTram 32
iTramSize: 8192
xTram Size: ?? 1024 - I think is the max - is 256 by default

Only slightly lower with AC97 ins - but using the AC97-2/UDA is a bit better - but still has noise - I2S based inputs with the platinum is even better.
I can only compare my SBLive OEM non-platinum (CT4832) to my A2ZS Platinum (SB0350)
The audigy Ac97 inputs *sound* better besides the noise - but I might be remembering the UDA/AC97-2 aspect - as its what I always use mostly. And only played with normal AC97 - you will likely hear the difference if planning on using it for DAW, and may mean you need to use lower fidelity source audio on that...
So you know - I can use 2 stereo ac97 inputs discreetly, not possible on the Live.

More Ins and Outs possible.
Wave HQ as an added multi-channel playback capable audio device - and the extra WDM audio recording device - tho, I dont really use either one much as I mostly use ASIO, and the Wave HQ device has some limitations inherant to the designed use of the P16V device (see the kX help for more about this).

Its as reliable as the live as far as I can tell.
You can use both like I do too.

JGSF

Currently any E-dsp card.

robert74

Thanks so mcuh - i think I'll have to get one!